Quality by John Galsworthy

This blog is about the short story Quality by John Galsworthy.

Introduction :

     'Quality,' written by John Galsworthy, is a short story that beautifully portrays the life and struggles of two brothers, the Gesslers, who are shoemakers. The story is much more than a description of their trade it delves deep into themes of dedication, artistry, and the changing times. Through the Gessler brothers’ devotion to their craft, Galsworthy highlights the conflict between traditional craftsmanship and the rapidly growing industrialized world.

         This story invites readers to reflect on the value of hard work and the sacrifices involved in pursuing perfection. At its core, it is a tale of quiet heroism and the tragic loss of individuality in the face of mass production. Even though it was written in the early 20th century, the message of Quality resonates strongly today, especially in an age where many handcrafted arts and trades are fading away.

About the Author: John Galsworthy

       John Galsworthy (1867–1933) was an English novelist and playwright who is best remembered for his exploration of societal norms, human relationships, and the struggles of ordinary individuals. Born into a wealthy family in Surrey, England, Galsworthy received an excellent education, attending Harrow and New College, Oxford. He initially trained to become a lawyer but soon realized that his true passion lay in writing.

     Galsworthy's works are characterized by their simplicity, emotional depth, and strong moral vision. His most famous creation, The Forsyte Saga, is a series of novels that provides a detailed account of an upper-middle-class English family, exploring their materialism, conflicts, and evolution across generations. This saga earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1932.

     Aside from his novels, Galsworthy wrote numerous plays and short stories, many of which focused on social issues. His writing often served as a critique of the rigid class structures and industrialization of his time. In Quality, Galsworthy uses the Gessler brothers’ story to emphasize the values of dedication and integrity, contrasting them with the growing emphasis on profit and efficiency in modern society.

Summary of 'Quality ':

      The story revolves around the narrator’s interactions with the Gessler brothers, two German shoemakers who run a small shop in London. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, the Gesslers create boots that are both durable and comfortable. Their work is a labor of love, and their devotion to quality sets them apart from other shoemakers.

      The narrator, a loyal customer, describes the elder Gessler as a quiet, serious man who takes immense pride in his work. For the Gesslers, shoemaking is not just a trade but an art form. Every pair of boots they produce reflects their commitment to excellence.

      However, the brothers face immense challenges in a world increasingly dominated by mass production. Larger firms with cheaper, machine-made products begin to overshadow their business. Despite their financial struggles, the Gesslers refuse to compromise on the quality of their work. They avoid advertisements and rely solely on the reputation of their craftsmanship.

       As the story progresses, the narrator observes the gradual decline of the Gesslers’ shop. On one visit, he learns that the younger brother has passed away, leaving the elder Gessler to run the business alone. The elder Gessler becomes visibly older and more frail, but his dedication remains unwavering.

        During his final visit, the narrator discovers that the elder Gessler has also passed away. The new shopkeeper explains that Gessler worked himself to exhaustion, earning so little from his meticulous work that he could barely survive. The narrator feels a deep sense of loss, realizing that the Gesslers’ dedication to their craft was not enough to sustain them in a world driven by commerce and speed.

Expectations from 'Quality'

1) A Tribute to the Art of Craftsmanship:

    Quality is a celebration of traditional craftsmanship. The Gessler brothers are portrayed as artists who pour their heart and soul into their work. Their boots are not just products; they are symbols of patience, skill, and dedication. Readers can expect to gain a profound appreciation for the value of skilled labor and the beauty of creating something with care and precision.

2) A Critique of Modern Industrialization :-

         Galsworthy’s story highlights the tension between traditional trades and modern industrial practices. The Gessler brothers represent a vanishing world of individual artistry, while the larger firms symbolize the impersonal nature of mass production. Readers can expect Quality to spark a reflection on the consequences of industrialization, particularly the loss of uniqueness and personal connection in manufactured goods.

3) A Story of Integrity and Sacrifice :

           The Gessler brothers embody the values of honesty and integrity. They refuse to lower their standards, even when it means enduring financial hardship. Their story is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices involved in staying true to one’s principles. Readers can expect to be inspired by their dedication while also feeling the weight of their struggles.

4) An Emotional Journey :

            While Quality is a simple story, it carries immense emotional depth. Galsworthy’s portrayal of the Gesslers’ quiet perseverance and eventual decline evokes both admiration and sadness. Readers can expect to connect deeply with the characters and feel a sense of loss for the world they represent.

5) A Timeless Message :

          Despite being set in the early 20th century, Quality remains relevant today. The story addresses universal themes such as the conflict between art and commerce, the value of hard work, and the importance of preserving individuality in a rapidly changing world. Readers can expect to find parallels between the Gesslers’ struggles and the challenges faced by artisans and small businesses in the modern era.

Conclusion :

        'Quality' by John Galsworthy is a timeless story that goes beyond its surface narrative of shoemaking. It is a heartfelt exploration of dedication, integrity, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. Through the Gessler brothers, Galsworthy reminds us of the dignity of skilled labor and the profound satisfaction that comes from creating something with love and care. At the same time, the story critiques a society that prioritizes profit and convenience over quality and authenticity. It mourns the loss of individuality and artistry in a world increasingly driven by mass production.

Thank you for reading..

Reference :-

John Galsworthy." Encyclopaedia Britannica, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.,https://www.britannica.com/biography/John-Galsworthy